Staffordshire football fan convicted of homophobic slurs and mocking disability
Jamie Arnold was arrested at the Wolves v Man Utd game last season
Last updated 8th Nov 2021
A football fan from Staffordshire has been banned from games for three years after being convicted of hurling homophobic abuse and making gestures which mimicked disability.
Jamie Arnold, from Stone, was arrested at the Wolves against Manchester United game last season after his behaviour was reported to police by other home supporters.
Arnold refused to take responsibility for his actions which were aimed towards the pitch, but was found guilty of a public order offence after a trial at Walsall Magistrates Court today (8 November).
The 31-year-old was given a Football Banning Order which means he can't attend any match in the UK for three years. He was also ordered to pay almost £875 in fine and costs.
PC Ward - who was appointed the UK's first dedicated hate crime officer within a football unit - said: "There is absolutely no justification for such vulgar actions.
"This was the first Wolves match with fans at Molineux following the pandemic and should have been a day of enjoyment. Instead, other supporters had to listen to and see vile behaviour.
“However, due to the support of Wolves and their supporters we were able to secure this conviction and a Football Banning Order.
"My role is to investigate any report of hate crime and that includes discrimination relating to sexual orientation and disability. We won't tolerate any type of hate crime, and will always fully investigate and pursue punishment against offenders."